Modelling and analysis of Canadian Forces RSOM-hub locations for Northern operations

This article presents an analysis of Reception, Staging and Onward Movement hub (RSOM-hub) concept to support Canadian Forces (CF) Northern operations and provides insights into the optimal RSOM-hub locations. RSOM-hubs are permanent or temporary staging bases for cross-loading between strategic and tactical lift during military deployment and sustainment operations. Performance measures were developed to assess the effectiveness and the responsiveness of the RSOM-hub concept. A simulation-based optimization model was also developed to determine the optimal number and locations of RSOMhubs. The model was considered in a multi-objective framework and solution trade-offs were determined through an exhaustive search methodology. Optimal RSOM-hub locations were investigated for different numbers of RSOM-hub solutions. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine the impact of different operational parameters on RSOM-hub performance and optimal locations. The study indicated that the RSOM-hub concept could offer potential cost avoidance and response time reduction on deployment lift for Northern operations and could be a potential strategy for improvement of the CF domestic support capability. OR Insight (2010) 23, 251–274. doi:10.1057/ori.2010.10